The deep ruby color of this wine beckons and the nose of dark cherry and mountain strawberry does not disappoint. Perfume and earthy aromas comingle to show the […]
Read More| TA | 0.58g/100mL |
|---|---|
| pH | 3.5 |
| Alc. | 14.1% |
| Barrel Description | 60% new, 40% 1 yr. |
|---|---|
| Barrel Aged | 14 months |
The deep ruby color of this wine beckons and the nose of dark cherry and mountain strawberry does not disappoint. Perfume and earthy aromas comingle to show the uniqueness of the six terroirs on Westside Road from which this wine is crafted. Hints of rose petal reveal the Russian River Valley signature, and the minerality and crushed rock elements highlight the Westside Road terroir. Powerful and brooding on the nose, the palate is equally as complex with rich dark fruits and lively flavors of tangerine. The tannins are concentrated but well-resolved, and the finish is punctuated with an oolong tea sensation.
It was an auspicious start to the 2017 growing season with steady rain followed by dry spells which allowed for the soil profile to fill up progressively. The waterworks kicked into high gear in January at which point over 20 inches of rain had accumulated. That’s nearly double the historical average. 2017 was epic in many respects and at one point the Russian River waters touched Westside Road and the winery was waterfront property! As the waters receded and the soil dried up, temperatures moderated, and bud break ensued by mid-March. Steady rain through the vegetative cycle was balanced with days of brilliant sunshine which helped to grow green, healthy plants. The weather was very fine in May for the flowering period and ideal for the fruit set. As the season progressed there were periods of heat that occurred with some regularity. With plenty of water in the soil profile, the plants did not stress too much and physiological maturity continued at an accelerated pace. Due to the diversity in our vineyard sources, there is normally a natural spread in the pick dates. However, in 2017 there was compression of the harvest and many of the vineyards were ready in a short period of time. The process was nearly complete by the time the intense Labor Day heat wave hit and, thankfully, had concluded before the devastating wildfires in October. Through a Herculean effort in the vineyards and at the winery we were able to pick the grapes at the optimal time and preserve the freshness and acidity of the vintage. The consequent wines show a refinement to the tannin structure which will allow for early consumption but will age gracefully with mid-term cellaring. Through and through, the 2017 is an excellent vintage.
The 2017 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors is another wine in this range that is all about understatement and nuance. Medium in body yet also quite deep and resonant, the Westside Road Neighbors is succulent and inviting from the very first taste. Black cherry, plum, violet and cloves all add to the wine's dark-ish leaning flavor profile. A.G.
Youthfully shy, the pale to medium ruby-purple colored 2017 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors features very pretty violet, dried flowers and bitter citrus peel scents with blueberry, warm blackberries, nutmeg, dried black tea leaves and autumn leaves aromas. It's light to medium-bodied with a good core of fruit framed by soft, grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing spicy.1,307 cases produced. Anticipated maturity: 2019 - 2028.
A perennial knockout, this wine combines vineyard sites from its namesake Westside Road. Flavors of smoke, strawberry, forest floor and black tea accent a velvety, lush palate, ending with a fresh, savory edge. —V.B.
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2017 Allen Vineyard Chardonnay